Vegetarian Kalua Pig
Transport yourself to the flavors of Hawaii with this irresistible Vegetarian Kalua Pig, a plant-based spin on the traditional island favorite. This recipe uses tender young green jackfruit to replicate the texture of slow-roasted pork, marinated in a smoky, savory blend of liquid smoke, soy sauce, and aromatic spices like garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Perfectly roasted to achieve that pull-apart texture with golden, crispy edges, this dish brings all the tropical island vibes while remaining completely vegan. For an extra authentic touch, bake and serve it on banana leaves, or enjoy it as a filling for tacos, sandwiches, or bowls. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, this dish is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy kalua pig in a cruelty-free, wholesome way.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cans (each about 14-20 oz) young green jackfruit (in water or brine, not syrup), drained
- 2 teaspoons liquid smoke
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon sea salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 banana leaves (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Begin by draining the jackfruit and rinsing it well under cold water to remove excess brine or salt. Pat the jackfruit dry with a clean kitchen towel.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the liquid smoke, soy sauce, coconut oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Add the jackfruit pieces to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the marinade.
Using your hands or a fork, gently break apart the jackfruit pieces to resemble pulled pork. The jackfruit should easily break into fibrous strands.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread the coated jackfruit evenly on a baking sheet. If you have them, place a banana leaf on the baking sheet to lay the jackfruit on for added aroma and authenticity.
Bake the jackfruit in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, stirring halfway through, until it becomes tender and slightly crisp on the edges.
Serve the Vegetarian Kalua Pig warm, either on a platter laid with banana leaves for a traditional presentation, or in sandwiches, tacos, or bowls, as desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
182 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 14.4 g | 18% | |
| Saturated Fat | 11.6 g | 58% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2348 mg | 102% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 10.3 g | 4% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.7 g | ||
| Protein | 4.6 g | 9% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 48 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 1.7 mg | 9% | |
| Potassium | 399 mg | 8% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
